Scores of children from two Plymouth primary schools have taken part in an inspiring project in Beaumont Park which saw two micro forests take root.
Organised by SocieTree, a pioneering environmental non-profit organisation, the event marked a significant step in rekindling the bond between children and the natural world. Around 150 pupils from Salisbury Road Primary School and Holycross Catholic Primary School took part.
The day began with children gathering under the canopy of Beaumont Park, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Mushi, the gentle giant mushroom, whose tales captivated their hearts.
Through an engaging storytelling session, the children embarked on a whimsical journey into Mushi’s world, learning about the magic of forests and the importance of conservation. The children had the opportunity to delve into Mushi’s next exciting adventure and even received their own copies of the book.
Following the storytelling session, young artists honed their creativity as they learned to sketch Mushi under the guidance of a talented instructor and artist. With pencils and paper in hand, they brought Mushi to life on the canvas, fostering a deeper connection with nature through art.
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The highlight of the event came as children, teachers, parents, and volunteers from Veterans Outdoors and SocieTree directors gathered to plant trees, symbolising their commitment to nurturing the environment. Each child planted a tree, contributing to the growth of the micro forests that will flourish in Beaumont Park for generations to come.
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The initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of SocieTree, with funding from DEFRA, under Project 96 along with incredible support from Plymouth City Council.
Micro forests, inspired by Akira Miyawaki’s pioneering planting method, are dense, biodiverse ecosystems that mimic the structure and function of natural forests on a smaller scale. By densely planting native species in a carefully planned arrangement, micro forests promote rapid growth, enhance biodiversity, and provide numerous environmental benefits, including significantly improved carbon sequestration, soil enrichment, and habitat creation, perfect small for urban areas.
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Speaking about the event, Steve Warren-Brown founder of SocieTree, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and emphasised the organisation’s commitment to empowering children to become stewards of the environment.
He said:
“Today’s event embodies our vision of fostering a deep-rooted love for nature among the next generation. By planting these micro forests, we believe we’re giving the children a hope, sowing the seeds of a greener, more sustainable future.”
Since the Beaumont planting day, the momentum hasn’t slowed a bit. Another three micro forests have been completed within the grounds of Marlborough Primary, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary and Mount Street Primary welcoming voluntary support from numerous local organisations. The culmination and grand finale planting day of these first six forests took place at St Matthew’s Primary and Nursery Academy in the presence of the Lord Mayor of Plymouth.
For more information about SocieTree and their initiatives or to volunteer, visit www.societree.uk
